Arriving by Aria

High-riding multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) are commonplace today, with most manufacturers having something to offer. We have been yet to see one from Tata though – until now.

Enter the Aria – fit for five and with a host of luxury and safety features befitting an executive people mover.

Unlike anything we’ve seen from Tata before, the Aria places focus on space and flexibility. Space is commodious, accommodating five occupants on adjustable, plush leather seats. Up front, the driver enjoys a six-way adjustable perch with a commanding view of the road.

High levels of spec and safety have been engineered into the Aria as well. The driver and occupants can enjoy features like infotainment controls mounted on the steering wheel, climate control, an audio and communications system equipped with Bluetooth functionality, a USB port and auxiliary input. Cruise control is also standard along with follow-me-home lights, fold-away mirrors, a reversing camera and ultrasonic reverse park-distance control.

Occupants will feel safe in the knowledge that the Aria is also equipped with safety features such as ABS brakes; electronic traction and stability control; driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags (six in total); crumple zones and side-impact beams.

The ride is designed to be comfortable too; something that perhaps belies the Aria’s macho looks – starting with sharply styled headlamps flanking a wide chromed grille. In profile, a sweeping arc-shaped roofline accompanies muscular wheel arches that encase 17-inch wheels. Twin exhausts round off the rear.

Power comes in the form of Tata’s tried and trusted 103 kW, 320 Nm, 2,2-litre DiCOR engine. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox and torque-on-demand four-wheel drive.

What more could one need from an executive people mover?